Some guns just can’t catch a break. Maybe they had a rocky launch, or maybe a few loud voices online gave them a bad rep. But not all of that hate is earned. Sometimes, these firearms turn out to be surprisingly dependable, affordable, or just plain useful—once you look past the noise. This list is all about giving a second chance to guns that folks love to bash but actually perform better than they’re given credit for.
Hi-Point C9
The Hi-Point C9 gets laughed at constantly, but it still manages to go bang every time. Sure, it’s bulky and not much to look at, but it’s affordable and generally reliable.
People expect it to fail because of the price tag, but many owners have thousands of rounds through theirs without a hiccup. It’s not fancy, but it works—and for someone on a budget, that counts.
Remington RP9
The RP9 stumbled out of the gate, especially during the Freedom Group era, but it’s not the disaster people make it out to be. It’s comfortable, accurate, and usually feeds just fine.
Yes, there were early bugs. But later models were improved, and at its current used prices, it’s a sleeper pick. Most shooters that actually try it are surprised by how well it shoots.
Taurus G2C
This compact pistol caught flak early on for being cheap, but the G2C has earned its spot. It’s affordable, carries well, and runs reliably for most users.
Some folks still won’t touch Taurus, but the G2C and its later siblings have changed a lot of minds. It’s not perfect, but it punches way above its price point and works for tons of carry setups.
Ruger American Rifle
Some shooters turn their noses up at the Ruger American for being “entry-level,” but it’s a straight shooter right out of the box. The action’s a little clunky, but it’s consistent.
With solid accuracy and tons of caliber options, it’s hard to beat for the money. Whether it’s for deer or varmints, the American gets the job done without needing upgrades.
Kel-Tec Sub2000
The folding PCC looks odd and feels different, which makes it an easy target. But the Sub2000 is a solid performer with great utility for truck guns or compact storage.
It uses common handgun mags and delivers decent accuracy at 50–100 yards. It’s not refined, but it’s clever and reliable—and that’s more than you can say for some higher-priced options.
Smith & Wesson SD9 VE
Often labeled a “Glock knockoff,” the SD9 VE doesn’t get much love—but it’s actually a reliable pistol that’s great for new shooters or budget carry.
The trigger isn’t great, but it’s predictable. And it runs. Many owners have put thousands of rounds through theirs without a single malfunction. It’s one of the better no-frills options out there.
Mossberg Blaze
This lightweight .22 LR gets criticized for being too plasticky, but that’s exactly what makes it good for youth shooters or casual plinking. It’s light, easy to use, and cheap to feed.
It won’t win over the Ruger 10/22 crowd, but it does what it needs to. For under $200, it’s hard to be mad about it doing exactly what it was made to do.
FN FiveseveN
Some folks scoff at the 5.7x28mm round, saying it’s overhyped or underpowered. But the FiveseveN does what it was built to do: shoot flat, fast, and with minimal recoil.
Yes, the ammo’s expensive. Yes, the frame feels a bit toy-like. But for varmint control or just fast, fun range time, it delivers. The hate usually comes from folks who haven’t shot one.
Remington 770
It’s true—the 770 isn’t great. But it also doesn’t deserve all the hate it gets. It was designed to be a budget rifle, and that’s exactly what it is.
The bolt isn’t smooth, and the trigger’s stiff, but it still puts rounds on target. For someone getting into hunting on a tight budget, it’s better than some give it credit for.
Beretta PX4 Storm
The PX4 doesn’t have the following of Beretta’s other pistols, and its looks throw some people off. But it’s smooth-shooting, accurate, and the rotating barrel helps tame recoil.
It just never became “cool,” which hurts its reputation. But spend some time with one, and it quickly becomes clear it’s underrated—especially if you’re used to snappier polymer pistols.
Savage Axis
The Axis is often dismissed as the bottom rung of the rifle world, but that’s unfair. It’s surprisingly accurate out of the box, even if the trigger and stock aren’t anything special.
With a little tuning—or even just decent glass—it’s a capable budget hunting rifle. It’s not flashy, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t perform when it counts.
Glock 21
The Glock 21 is big, blocky, and doesn’t fit every hand. That’s why it gets hate—but if it fits you, it’s one of the softest shooting .45 ACP pistols out there.
It runs forever, eats anything, and holds more rounds than most .45s. The size throws some people off, but once you get used to it, it’s hard to beat for reliability.
Marlin Model 60
Some people think the Model 60 is outdated compared to today’s tactical .22s, but it’s been reliable, accurate, and fun for decades. It’s easy to shoot and cheap to run.
There’s a reason millions of these have been sold. It might not be as modular as a 10/22, but it’s a classic for a reason. Don’t let the internet steer you wrong.
CZ P-07
The P-07 doesn’t get the same attention as the P-10 series or the SP-01, but it’s a fantastic pistol with great ergonomics and a solid track record.
It’s often overshadowed in the crowded polymer market, but those who shoot it tend to stick with it. It handles recoil well and offers a DA/SA trigger setup that’s becoming rare.
Winchester SXP
Some folks bash the SXP for not being a “real” Winchester due to its Turkish manufacture, but the gun itself is a solid performer. It cycles fast and stays reliable.
For home defense or field work, it gets the job done. The design is proven, and while it may not carry the legacy of American-made Winchesters, it shoots like it belongs in the family.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
